Photo via @arcanaspiritlounge / Instagram
Looking for a cozy escape from the cold and rainy weather this season? These swanky speakeasies and hidden bars offer some of the best nightlife Vancouver has to offer, and we’re here to share them with you. So buckle up and get ready for a memorable night out on the town!
With a faux entrance that looks like an office, this Vancouver speakeasy is a fun and eclectic spot inspired by the 60s and 70s, when actual ‘Key Parties’ were popular amongst swingers. Don’t worry though, it’s just a name here!
Where: 2305 Main Street
This hidden Vancouver bar is occult-themed, inviting guests to indulge in a variety of spirits – and we don’t just mean drinks. So if you’re looking for a unique spot that offers a variety of innovative sips and upscale French comfort food, get ready to visit this spooky yet cozy hole-in-the-wall.
Where: 238 Abbott Street
If live music is more your jam, then Guilt & Co. is the answer. Another underground bar (this time in Gastown) this spot is the perfect option for a night of eating, drinking, and listening to some of the city’s best artists perform on a weekly basis.
Where: 1 Alexander Street
This East Van spot might not brand itself as a speakeasy per se, but as soon as you step into the heaven and hell-themed bar, you’ll understand why it’s on this list. Low lighting, funky seating, and spicy decor for those who want to be transported to a devilish world. They can’t turn water into wine, but they’ve got plenty of delicious sips to make up for it!
Where: 670 East Broadway
Now for an iconic spot from the same folks behind Key Party. The Narrow Lounge is an underground bar that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Maybe our top pick on this list for when you want something off the beaten path that’s cozy enough to become a go-to spot. Plus, the amazing happy hour deals never hurt.
Where: 1898 Main Street
A classy yet approachable spot for cocktails and good chats, The Stock Room sits behind Hundy Burger downtown, designed to lure folks back with tropical island vibes and a stockroom’s worth of fancy libations and bar snacks.
Where: 1144 Homer Street
What does ordering the “Number 7” get you at BLND TGER in Chinatown? Access to this swanky bar, hidden by a very unassuming facade. Inside, you’ll find some amazing cocktails and small plates to enjoy.
Where: 251 East Georgia Street
Maybe it’s the unassuming exterior, maybe it’s the incredible, tiki-themed interior – one thing’s for sure: It’s definitely the eye-catching drinks and shareable bowls. Whatever the reason, a trip to the Shameful Tiki Room is always a memorable time!
Where: 4362 Main Street
Now we come to Loulas Taverna, AKA your best shot at going on a trip to the Mediterranean without leaving Vancouver. For those who don’t know, the airy, bright interior contains a back door to a ‘secret’ bar, where guests can venture off to after a delicious meal.
Where: 1608 Commercial Drive
Along the same vein as Laowai is Bagheera, Vancouver’s latest speakeasy-style, gold-clad bar. Captioned simply “we hide, you seek,” the hidden spot is open from 5 pm to late from Monday to Sunday. Note that the venue only accepts groups of 6 and under.
Where: 518 Main Street
This intimate spot is tucked away in Gastown’s Blood Alley, serving a rotating menu of freshly shucked oysters and BC wine. A hidden gem if there ever was one – Is That French offers guests a cozy, warm ambiance and stunning seafood plates that are almost too beautiful to eat. And from 6 to 8 pm every Thursday, you can enjoy some live jazz with your oysters.
Where: 45 Blood Alley Square
Located in the D/6 Bar and Lounge, this space is hidden behind one of the many bookshelves, and offers access to a complete room to kick back in. Pair that with a rooftop patio in the main space, and it’s a great place to start in one area and finish off in the other.
Where: 39 Smithe Street
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